Echinococcus multilocularis metacestodes: biochemical and ultrastructural investigations on the effect of isatin (2-3 indoline dione) in vivo.

A study on the biochemical and ultrastructural effects of isatin on Echinococcus multilocularis metacestodes in Meriones unguiculatus is reported. In the metacestode, after an 18 day treatment period, the alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase activities decreased and the acid phosphatase activity increased. Glucose and glycogen stores declined significantly. Examinations of the ultrastructure revealed an increase of lysosomes and phagocytic reactions. The protoscolesces were damaged and an abnormal striated process appeared. The tegumental cytoplasmic syncytium remained unaltered. These observations suggest that isatin derivatives may have a role in the chemotherapy of infections caused by Echinococcus spp.